The Flanders family, Poplar, London E14

One set of twins: my husband, Robert and his brother, Dave, born 21st August 1951. My husband’s sisters (although dressed the same and looking similar) are Christine, born 22nd March 1946 and Pauline born 9th October 1947.

Sadly, Christine died on 28th July 2014 – she was only 68. Pauline left for Australia when she was about 18* and is still there.

My husband’s mum, Annie, was born on 25th September 1914 and died aged 71 on 6th November 1985.

My husband’s dad, Robert, was born on 23rd April 1915 and died aged 82 on 17th June 1997.

Robert’s sister, Pauline, added these comments in January 2021:

Fantastic.  Happy days then, it seemed, but I expect it was pretty tough going for all mums and dads, like ours.  

 

Such great photos.  The first couple of photos of mum and her sisters were taken at Aunty Mary’s house in Elm Park Avenue, Hornchurch. Chris and I stayed with Mary and Ted, when mum was in hospital having Bob and Dave.

 

I remember so well those dresses Chris and I were wearing in one  of the photos.  The pattern was coloured balloons. Aunt Tilley bought us those dresses which I loved.  As for the kilts, I always loved them.  Tilley was so good to mum and dad. 

 

I was, in fact, just shy of my *21st birthday when I emigrated to Australia in August 1968.  Seems like only yesterday.